In December 13, 1731, the Pelham family of Boston held what is considered to be the first known public concerts in Colonial America. By 1769, composer and musician Peter Pelham had begun a musical tradition of public concerts in Williamsburg, Virginia, at Bruton Parish. Concerts were attended by various Virginians, including future president Thomas Jefferson. In a period marked by classism in the arts, these public concerts were a glimpse of a new era that would be realized in the coming Revolution.

Established in 2024, Williamsburg Baroque continues that tradition of public concerts started by Pelham in the Williamsburg community and beyond. Each concert is committed not only to performing music of the highest caliber, but also to education. The ensemble is devoted to performing rare music of underperformed composers in addition to a Bach cantata each season. It has been our joy to introduce many audience members to not only new composers, but new instruments and for many, their first historical performance concert.

Upcoming concerts:

September 27, 2025, 7 p.m. -- 'Dawn of the 18th Century: Music from 1700-1725.' We begin our time-traveling journey as we chronologically explore compositions from 1700-1725 in our season's opening concert. We will feature rare pieces written by Kusser to Keller to beloved composers including concerto grossos by Vivaldi and Corelli. Our featured performer will be Rebecca Davy who will perform Bach's 'Concerto in D Major for Harpsichord' BWV1054. 

December 20, 2025, 8 p.m. -- 'A Baroque Christmas: Music from 1725-1750.' Williamsburg Baroque invites you to a Baroque Christmas! Enjoy Corette's 'Les six symphonies de noël' and Molter's 'Concerto Pastorale in G Major,' in addition to Bach's Advent cantata, 'Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland,' BWV 61. We encourage concert attendees to check out Colonial Williamsburg's Grand Illumination fireworks before walking next door to our concert.

2026 concerts coming soon!

All concerts held at Bruton Parish Episcopal Church

201 W. Duke of Gloucester Street, Williamsburg, VA 23185

williamsburgbaroque@gmail.com